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ORF destination photo
ATL destination photo

ORFATL

Our Recommendation
8.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a front-row seat to Stone Mountain and the Atlanta skyline during the final descent, alongside the unique terrain of the Great Dismal Swamp.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🌲

Great Dismal Swamp

A massive forested wetland straddling the Virginia and North Carolina border visible shortly after takeoff.

🌊

Lake Hartwell

A sprawling reservoir on the Savannah River with intricate, jagged shorelines at the GA/SC border.

⛰️

Stone Mountain

A giant granite monadnock that is one of the most famous and recognizable landmarks in Georgia.

🏙️

Atlanta Skyline

Clear views of the Midtown and Downtown skyscrapers during the final approach into Hartsfield-Jackson.

🏟️

Mercedes-Benz Stadium

The distinct geometric retractable roof of the stadium is often visible near the airport.

Sit on the left for the most iconic views of Georgia landmarks. During the typical arrival into ATL from the northeast, Stone Mountain will appear out your window followed by the city skyline. Late afternoon flights provide excellent lighting for these features as the sun sets in the west, illuminating the city.

Right Side Highlights
7.4
⚓

Norfolk Naval Base

The world's largest naval station with aircraft carriers and destroyers frequently visible during climb-out.

🌊

Chesapeake Bay

Vast coastal views and the mouth of the bay during the initial ascent from Norfolk.

🏔️

Blue Ridge Mountains

The hazy blue silhouettes of the Appalachian range visible on the distant northern horizon.

🚤

Lake Lanier

A large, island-filled reservoir northeast of the Atlanta metro area, popular for recreation.

🏗️

Research Triangle

The sprawling urban development of the Raleigh and Durham area in North Carolina.

The right side is ideal for maritime enthusiasts during takeoff to see the US Navy fleet. To avoid the glare of the southern sun on this westbound route, the right side is generally more comfortable for reading or sleeping during midday flights. Look for the distant mountain ridges particularly on clear winter days when visibility is highest.

Top Activities in Atlanta
Route Information

Distance: 830 km (516 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 23 min

Departure: ORF (36.89459991455078, -76.20120239257812)

Arrival: ATL (33.6367, -84.428101)

Route Type: Domestic

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